BRAVEBODIES PILATES FOR A HEALTHY BACK AND OVERALL FITNESS
“In 10 sessions, you will feel the difference,
In 20 sessions, you will see the difference,
In 30 sessions, you’ll have an entirely new body.”
This is a quote by Joseph Pilates, the founder of the Pilates method. Look at the pictures of this remarkable man below. In the first photo, he is sixty. He looks half his age. In the second one, he is eighty-two. Even though his hair matches the snow around him, he exudes energy and youthfulness.
Many people choose to start with Pilates because of back pain, often following the recommendation of a doctor. The Pilates method WILL help your back immensely, but not only that. You will gain overall strength, flexibility and control. Joseph Pilates called his method “contrology”, and for a good reason. You are made fully aware of everything you are doing – no exercise is performed in a rush and focus on breathing and form is key.
You will stand and walk taller and appear slimmer as Pilates works intensely on the abdominal region, focusing on the deepest layer of the abdominals called the transversus abdominis, which wraps around your body like a corset. A strong transversus, along with the top layers, will fully support your spine. It will transform your posture and keep your whole body correctly aligned – you can’t ask for better prevention against injury and strain caused by muscular imbalance.
My own classes are founded on the modern version of the Pilates method called Stott Pilates, which is the most recognized style of Pilates in the world. Quoting from their website: “The refined method resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and rehabilitation – making it one of the safest and most effective methods available.”
In addition to the Stott Pilates method, which forms the base for all my other teaching, I borrow from other styles, especially from the brilliant James da Silva’s Garuda, and some exercises I have invented myself, keeping within Pilates principles of breathing and spinal positioning. We use our own body weight for strength building, as well as bands and Pilates rings for added resistance and foam rollers for extra challenge to balance. I like to keep the classes varied to provide continuous challenge, and it also means you won’t get bored!
Because most exercises are performed either seated or lying on the floor (or the foam roller) and there isn’t such a strong emphasis on range of movement of primary joints as there is in yoga, you may want to try our Pilates class first if you are new to exercise or returning to it after a long break. All movements can be easily modified according to your needs.
I look forward to welcoming you in one of my Pilates classes, either in Southampton (Woolston) or Lowford. If you would like to contact me personally, email me at barbara@bravebodies.com or call me at 0798 223 6118.
See you soon!
